The pandemic is far from over but lockdown restrictions have eased enough for several activities to resume. South Africa is known for its pristine hiking scene, offering landscapes from mountains to bushveld and everything in between.
As summer draws near, more nature-lovers will venture outdoors to explore, but we need to do so safely. And as with countless other industries, the adventure tourism sector has been hit hard by COVID-19.
‘Lockdown affected my business incredibly badly. All my guided trips from the middle of March were cancelled. I have tried to branch more into my photography during lockdown and make some money off that,’ said Kyle Schophaus, a Cape Town-based adventure guide.
Kyle is an adventure guide with expert knowledge of the outdoor scene.
He also said that while many will definitely be more cautious about hiking in groups, his experience it that most people can’t wait to get out into nature.
Although everyone will want to go outdoors during summer, it’s important that hikers remain vigilant, especially in groups. But according to Schophaus, it’s a challenge that can easily be navigated.
‘Guiding in the mountains, clients bring their own hiking gear and snacks, and everything we touch will be sanitised regularly,’ he said. ‘Overall client’s safety is of the utmost importance to me,’ he added.
Schophaus will be offering special rates as the summer season kicks off, standing ready with expert knowledge and advice about the Western Cape’s awe-inspiring trails.
For more information, contact him on Whatsapp: 0734210714 or email: [email protected].
Image credit: Kyle Schophaus
